Mark McLemore, 62, Vidalia, GA Surgery: April 4, 2008
VIP Friends Online

I researched prostate cancer for over a year before I received a positive diagnosis. The research
was initiated because my PSA had been elevated. As a result, I was prepared and understood the
implications of prostate cancer when I received the news.
Most of my research was conducted over the Internet. It was also over the Internet that I
researched my options for treatment. My local urologist had always referred his patients to a short
list of in-state surgeons who were versed in robotic surgery. Since I had but one chance, I did not
want to limit my choices to a specific geographical area and I determined that I would seek out the
best, no matter how far I had to travel. This meant I could pick the surgeon with the most
experience and best facility, which led me to Dr. Patel of the Global Robotics Institute at Florida
Hospital.
My initial contact with Dr Patel and his staff was via email. I stated my problem, attached the lab
report and requested that some-one to contact me. That very afternoon, when I returned home
from work, I had two phone messages from two different doctors on the staff. One was from Dr.
Patel himself and the other from his partner. That evening Dr. Patel called again and after talking to
him, I felt confident that he would be my choice.
A few weeks later, my wife and I visited the Global Robotics Institute and met Dr. Patel personally
along with several members of his staff. By the time we left the meeting to return home, my wife
and I felt confident in our decision to permit Dr. Patel to perform the surgery. We were also quite
impressed with the efficiency and comfort level of the Florida Hospital. The confidence in my
decision instilled by Dr. Patel gave me comfort on the day of surgery and I believe that confidence
helped my wife as well.
Following surgery, we met with Dr. Patel again. He and his staff were constantly close by and gave
me the information I needed to start my road to recovery. The Florida Hospital staff and its facilities
far exceeded my expectations — experiences based on my previous hospital visits.
Each day following surgery I could see that I was progressing back to my old self. Looking back
now, I have a few observations about my experience with prostate cancer: One, prostate cancer
does not need to cause worry or depression if you are confident in the decisions you have made
regarding the cure. I made those decisions after much research, and I never looked back. I would
recommend Dr. Patel and the facility to any man facing the same challenge. After a month, I am
almost back to normal and life goes on. Two, as a result of this experience I have decided to worry
less and to enjoy life more! I will also take better care of my body. —
